Hi -- my company is sending me to Toulouse on a business trip and I'm staying for an extra 11 days for a vacation. The last four days we'll be in Paris and we are thinking of going to Spain for the first two or three days. That leaves four or five days for the South of France. We'll have a rental car. Any recommendations for the best places to see for two people who have never been to that area, but whose favorite country in Europe is Italy? (If it were me paying for the airfare instead of my company, I'd definitely be going to Italy instead.) Thanks.
Posted by
San Diego, CA, United States
864 posts
Well, I'd pick Spain or the South of France but not both. That said alot depends on when you are going. For myself (please note posters I said myself not the world in general) I' d never go to Spain in the hot months (love it in the Spring). My favorite place is Tuscany but gosh, there's so much to see wherever you pick. I do think it's better to see less, but well, than more as a blur. Take into account driving times etc. (we're not teleporting - yet!) Be sure to pick up a GOOD driving map in Europe (and I find highlighting my next days route helpful). You will have a wonderful time whateveryou decide but again, sometimes (often) less is indeed more. Many happy travels.
Posted by
US Pacific Northwest
10344 posts
Provence is perfect for the traveler with 5 days and a car. Rick's book, Provence & the Riviera, will tell you the delights that are in store for you in Provence.
Posted by
Brisbane
2 posts
We spent a week in the Dordogne area last September.Absolutely wonderful area with plenty of little villages to see and also beautiful countryside and history.
Julie
Posted by
Lebanon
711 posts
Isle -sur-la Sorgue is a nice place to stay if you have a car. You can visit both the Luberon villages and the Cotes de Rhone villages .
Posted by
Boston
4132 posts
Sorry you can't see Italy this time around. But SW France is quite wonderful, and off the main Paris-Provence U.S. tourist track. (Lots of Brits go there though.)
However, I don't see where you get "four or five days." 3 in Spain, 4 in Paris, and a minimum of 3 on the road leaves you a day, maybe.
Personally I'd save Spain for another time (when you can do it justice) and spend the time in Perigord--more logistically efficient and lots of great things to do.
You could also (if you skip Spain) drive to Provence as some have suggested; it wouldn't be my first choice but it works if you return your car there when done and take the TGV to Paris.
Can you fly from Spain to Paris? That might free up a few days that you could spend exploring the hills and towns around Tolouse. Good luck with it.
Posted by
OP
Portland, Oregon, USA
9 posts
Thanks to everyone for the comments. We have decided not to go to Barcelona since our time -- and money -- are limited. We'll stay in the south of France until we drop off the car and take the TGV to Paris.
Posted by
LaGrange, Ga, USA
1178 posts
In S. France I would recommend Montpelier rather than Marseille. Much more to see, less traffic, etc.
In Caux, (near Pezenas) check out the Stone House Bed and Breakfast...rural, set in a very small town near Pezenas, near the coast line. Most relaxing place I found in France!! And so beautiful.
Near Avignon, I highly recommend Vaison La Romaine. Stay in the citi medieval there if possible. On each Tuesday there is a town market that has been held each Tuesday since the early 1500's or so. Lots of Roman ruins as well.
Posted by
Bay Area
3551 posts
No question Provence! Stay in Arles to be fairly central with great restaurants, a market, excellent lodging options and a very interesting town to walk and visit.